Apple plans to introduce Dynamic E-Ink Keyboard for MacBooks

Amidst the rumors that Apple might introduce an OLED touch strip to its MacBook lineup, few reports claim that the company plans to make a big change to the MacBook keyboard. Apple has been reportedly been in discussions with Australian startup Sonder, regarding Sonder’s dynamic E-Ink keyboard for upcoming MacBooks. Although Sonder, part of Foxconn’s Incubator program has confirmed that the discussions have taken place, it is yet to announce a final deal. Plus, Apple further confirmed that both Foxconn International Holdings and E Ink Holdings are helping the company with the discussions.

The Sonder’s dynamic E-Ink keyboard offers an e-ink display under the alphanumeric keys, which enable users to customize the keyboard based on their personal preferences. The keys have the ability to change users’ context concerning languages or symbols.

Though the keyboard is not just yet out, it’s currently available to pre-order for $199. Speaking of the timing, Apple fans aren’t going to get their hands on a MacBook with the E-Ink keyboard any time soon. Even if Apple has a contract in place, it’s very likely that we won’t see the keyboard included in Apple products for at least one or two more MacBook generations. Perhaps, you will be able to see it once the companies do strike a deal eventually.

Apple’s MacBook lineup are expected to launch later this year. Some reports have claimed that there will be two new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro laptops that will bring in OLED function keys instead of the physical ones. They will also come with Touch ID that is said to be incorporated into the power button itself. Not only that, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said that the new MacBook Pro models will support USB Type C and ThunderBolt 3 along with faster Intel Skylake processors. Plus, they also sport AMD’s new 400-series Polaris graphic cards. So, hopefully, in addition to these significant changes, the Cupertino-based company will soon integrate the dynamic E-Ink keyboard into its next-gen Macs, which surely makes it more appealing to consumers.

What do you think about the dynamic E-Ink keyboard for MacBooks? Share with us in the comments section below.